ACs Joins Call for Precaution on Deep-Sea Mining

In a recent joint statement, the Pelagic Advisory Council (PelAC), joined several other European fisheries councils to urge caution over deep-sea mining (DSM). The statement, developed with the Long Distance Fisheries (LDAC), North Western Waters (NWWAC), and South Western Waters (SWWAC) Advisory Councils, addresses growing concerns over DSM’s potential impacts on marine ecosystems and fisheries.

Responding to the “Draghi Report on the Future of European Competitiveness,” which suggests DSM as a potential source of critical minerals, the councils expressed their shared commitment to sustainable practices for the EU’s green transition. However, they stress that DSM comes with serious environmental and socio-economic risks that must be carefully evaluated. While DSM could support the transition to a greener economy, the councils recommend that the EU apply the precautionary principle, advocating a moratorium or prohibition until scientific studies demonstrate minimal risks to marine ecosystems.

The councils’ statement highlights the current scientific uncertainty surrounding DSM’s effects. Potential impacts, like sediment disruption, noise pollution, and vessel discharge, could disturb marine habitats and harm fisheries. Highly migratory fish, such as tropical tuna, could be particularly affected, threatening the food webs and ecosystems essential to sustainable fisheries. Leading scientific groups and the European Parliament have echoed these concerns, noting that DSM’s perceived benefits do not currently outweigh its potential long-term environmental costs.

EFFOP is a member of PelAC.

Read the joint statement here.